The Myers-Briggs Code: The Next Steps After the MBTI Test

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a psychometric assessment (developed by a mother-daughter duo named Katharine Cook Briggs and Isabel Briggs Myers) that measures psychological preferences in how individuals perceive the world and make decisions. The test categorizes individuals into one of 16 different personality types based on their preferences in 4 key dimensions:

1. Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I): Indicates whether individuals focus more on the external world or their internal thoughts and feelings
2. Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N): Reflects how individuals gather and process information, either through concrete details or abstract patterns
3. Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F): Reveals how individuals make decisions, either based on logical analysis or consideration of personal values and emotion
4. Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P): Reflects individuals’ preference for structure and organization or flexibility and adaptability

Link to MBTI Test:

• https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test
• https://www.truity.com/test/type-finder-personality-test-new

While a lot has been spoken about how the test is widely used in various contexts for personal and professional development like self-awareness, personal growth, career guidance & development, etc; it also contributes a great deal to team building, collaboration, Conflict Resolution, and relationship building, etc.

This article gives some general guidelines on managing individuals with each MBTI trait and adapting the management approach accordingly.

1. Extraversion (E):

• Provide opportunities for collaboration, group discussions, and brainstorming sessions
• Assign them tasks that involve interaction with others
• Recognize their need for external stimulation and create a social and energetic work environment

2. Introversion (I):

• Allow them quiet and focused time for independent work.
• Provide written instructions and clear expectations.
• Respect their need for solitude and privacy, and avoid overwhelming them with excessive social interaction.

3. Sensing (S):

• Offer concrete examples and specific details when communicating.
• Provide step-by-step instructions and clear guidelines.
• Focus on practical, real-world applications and experiences.

4. Intuition (N):

• Encourage their big-picture thinking and creative problem-solving.
• Provide opportunities for brainstorming and idea generation.
• Support their exploration of innovative and unconventional approaches.

5. Thinking (T):

• Present logical reasoning and data-driven arguments when discussing decisions or providing feedback.
• Encourage critical analysis and problem-solving based on facts and evidence.
• Be objective and avoid overly emotional discussions.

6. Feeling (F):

• Create a supportive and empathetic work environment.
• Acknowledge and validate their emotions and values.
• Encourage open communication and collaboration to address interpersonal dynamics.

7. Judging (J):

• Set clear goals, deadlines, and expectations.
• Provide structure and organization in tasks and projects.
• Offer regular feedback and progress updates to help them stay on track.

8. Perceiving (P):

• Allow flexibility in work schedules and approaches.
• Encourage their adaptability to changing circumstances.
• Provide opportunities for exploring new ideas and opportunities.

Remember that these guidelines are general, and individuals may have unique preferences and needs. MBTI test provides a framework for understanding personality preferences, but it is not definitive or comprehensive in capturing the complexities of an individual’s personality. The results should be used as a starting point for self-reflection and development, and should not be used to label or stereotype individuals. Regular communication, feedback, and individualized approaches are key to effectively managing individuals with different MBTI traits.

Sources / additional reading:

• https://www.businessinsider.in/strategy/how-to-manage-every-personality-type/articleshow/44973375.cms
• https://www.16personalities.com/articles/strategies-people-mastery
• https://www.themyersbriggs.com/en-US/Connect-With-Us/Blog/2022/February/How-to-develop-high-potential-people-using-MBTI-personality-insights